The Phillies Zone

Contrary to reports from Japan, the Phillies have not come to agreements with Japanese relievers Shigetoshi Yamakita and Naoyo Okamoto, a Phillies spokesman said.

Japan's Daily Sports Online had reported on Friday that the Phillies had signed Yamakita and Okamoto to minor-league deals. Both pitched last season for the Shonan Searex, a minor-league affiliate of the Yokohama Bay Stars. They were released by the team following the season.

The original report said the deals would be formally announced this coming week -- so it's possible the Phillies have at least shown some interest.